Harbourfront Centre announced its inaugural China Now festival, an unprecedented exploration of Chinese arts and culture taking place July 11-13. Presented by Manulife, in partnership with Can4Culture and China International Culture Association, working with the China Arts and Entertainment Group, supported by the Ministry of Culture, People's Republic of China, China Now explores the theme of artistic legacy through a multidisciplinary look at the country's artistic traditions and trajectory.

With over 100 multidisciplinary artists venturing to Harbourfront Centre from China and other Chinese communities around the world, this festival will highlight the intersections that define and shape Chinese arts and culture inside and outside of the country. From live music to dance, food demonstrations to artisanal crafts and much more, China Now's exciting and unprecedented lineup will provide festival patrons with an opportunity to experience a taste of contemporary Chinese arts and culture in one place. Harbourfront Centre is honoured to be the sole North American destination outside of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage for this unprecedented showcase of Chinese culture.

"Though China's history dates back five millennia, the country's legacy is not confined by its past," explains Rodrigo Fritz, senior artistic associate and project coordinator at Harbourfront Centre. "China's modernity is so contemporary that it challenges the very idea of what 'modern' means. With China Now, we're deconstructing preconceptions and investigating the diverse traditions, cultures and experiences of China and its people. We're looking forward to kicking-off this inaugural festival, and hope that our patrons will take advantage of this unique opportunity to explore and engage with China's multifaceted culture."

"Manulife's history with China dates back over 115 years, and we're continuing to develop our presence there to the fullest," shares Rob Park, National VP, Asian Market & Living Benefit Sales, Retail Markets at Manulife. "Chinese arts and culture are cherished around the world and China Now gives Canadians an opportunity to discover a piece of China's unique beauty."

Working in partnership with Harbourfront Centre, Dr. Nelly Ng, Chair of Can4Culture reflects that "Through culture, we are bonded, transcending national boundaries, fostering relations between the peoples of Canada and China."